Born and raised in Germany, I have called Auckland home since 2004. My tourism career began with a formal apprenticeship as a travel agent, providing a solid foundation for a lifelong career in tourism. Among other roles, I served as Managing Director of Farm-Tours GmbH, a company specialising in agricultural study tours to destinations around the world.
My passion for New Zealand as a travel destination began in 1990. However, family and professional commitments delayed my dream of immigrating until 2004. Since 2008, I have been self-employed in the tourism sector, working primarily as a tour and driver guide for both groups and individual travelers. When I’m not on the road showcasing the beauty of New Zealand, I welcome guests to Fernglen B&B, my boutique homestay on Auckland’s North Shore.
I take great pleasure in sharing the landscapes, culture, history, and people of my adopted home. My guests appreciate my warm, informative approach, professional manner, and ability to adapt to any situation. I strive to create memorable experiences that go beyond sightseeing and provide genuine connections with New Zealand and its people.
My personal motto is: “Come as a guest, leave as a friend.” Over the years, this philosophy has led to many lasting friendships and countless guests returning to experience more of Aotearoa New Zealand.
I am a proud honorary member of ProGuides New Zealand Inc., the professional association for New Zealand tour and driver-guides. Outside of tourism, I am also an enthusiastic sailor and enjoy spending time on the water.
Professional reference
With many years of experience in the tourism industry, both in New Zealand and internationally, I have developed extensive knowledge of destinations around the world as well as a deep understanding of New Zealand’s unique landscapes, culture, and heritage.
Throughout my career, I have held a variety of leadership positions and successfully operated my own tourism businesses. Today, I proudly work under my own brand, Koru Travel. Previously, I served as National Sales & Marketing Manager for KEA, one of New Zealand’s leading campervan and motorcycle rental and touring companies. I also founded and managed Farm Tours Ltd in Germany, specialising in tailored special-interest tours to destinations worldwide.
My approach is professional, flexible, and guest-focused. I am passionate about creating memorable travel experiences and sharing New Zealand from an insider’s perspective. Whether arranging travel, guiding tours, or providing transport services, I take pride in delivering personalised experiences that reflect the true character of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Having called New Zealand home since 2004, I combine local expertise with a genuine enthusiasm for the country’s history, culture, geography, and heritage. I also own and operate a licensed luxury tour vehicle and provide private transport and touring services throughout New Zealand.
In addition, I am the owner and operator of Fernglen B&B on Auckland’s North Shore, offering comfortable accommodation with beautiful views in a welcoming and relaxed setting.
Whether you are looking for a customised tour, private transport, travel planning, or local insights, I look forward to helping you discover the very best of New Zealand.
Licenses & Certificates
Waka Kotahi / P – Endorsement
Large (Class 2) and Small (Class 1,6) Passenger Service License
Auckland Council – Approved Operator
Permit to carry out specific activities in selected Auckland Regional parks
ProGuides New Zealand – Honorary member
Association of professional tour- and driver guides in New Zealand.
Deportment of Conservation (DOC)
Concession to undertake certain activities on land administered by the Department of Conservation
Tiaki – Care for New Zealand
The Tiaki Promise has a set of guiding principles for visitors to follow, showing them how to contribute to preserving and protecting our land.
NZ Coast Guard – First Aid & Coastal Medic
Intermediate course within 24 hours of assistance. Meets requirements for workplace first aid certificate. Recognized by RYA, and YNZ
